“Mommy Tracked,” by Whitney Gaskell, Bantam Books, New York, NY, 349 pages, $12.
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Whitney Gaskell has tapped into a specific reading population, women in their late 20s and 30s.
Her earlier novels “Testing Kate,” “True Love and Other Lies,” “She, Myself & I” and “Pushing 30,” reflect on the nature of the subject matter.
The novels all bring humor and well developed characters that are very memorable to readers.
In this novel, “Mommy Tracked,” readers are introduced to Chloe, Grace, Anna and Juliet, who meet on a night out in a group of “Mothers Coming Together.”
Some look forward to the regularly scheduled event, others feel dragged into the gathering.
As the book progresses, readers step into the lives of several of its members, each of going through a crisis or an adjustment in her life in Orange Grove, Fla., where they all call “home.”
One is experiencing a son, age 2, and the joys of life during that time.
Another is recently divorced and struggling as she begins anew the dating process.
Another is working feverishly to be successful professionally, while her husband is adjusting to being a stay-at-home dad caring for twin daughters.
Well, I think you have a clue into the nature of the novel — or so you might think.
Next, the rubber duck at the women’s feet on the front cover of the paperback version, is the phrase “sometimes moms need playdates too.”
If this review intrigues you, this book might be one you’ll enjoy reading.
You might find Gaskell’s other novels of interest, each deals with the everyday happenings, which young women or mothers take for granted, presented in a witty, light-hearted manner.
Margaret Barno, a retired social worker, lives in Pflugerville.
